As the flight restrictions are lifted, airlines are trying their best to get flights back to normal and carry as many passengers back to the UK whose flights were cancelled over that period.

EasyJet is operating 15 rescue flights to and from the UK to bring home stuck passengers. The airline has chartered additional aircraft over the next few days to collect passengers from the islands and regions where many havebeen unable to make alternative arrangements. It will also operate scheduled services with larger aircraft to enable it to carry more passengers which will allow them to carry an additional 3,000 stranded passengers home.

Flybe intends to operate most of its flights today (Thursday) but is still cancelling some flights. Chief commercial officer Mike Rutter said: “The unprecedented challenges we’ve had to overcome over the past week have tested the robustness of everyone throughout the aviation industry.”

Cathay Pacifichas resumed normal services to and from Europe. Nine flights to Europe and three Hong Kong-bound flights from Europe have departed, carrying more than 3,000 and 1,000 passengers respectively. However, the airline expects it will take weeks to clear the backlog so they will not accept new bookings to Europe before 6th May.

Emirates‘ customers affected by the disruption are advised that they can cancel their booking or change their onward destination without charge. All re-issue and cancellation fees will be waived while the disruption is ongoing.

Singapore Airlines has returned to a full European flight schedule. Customers booked on scheduled flights to and from Europe will be able to travel as planned.